The Bright Schools Program

Start Saving School Dollars Now by Reducing Your Energy Usage!

As budgets are shrinking, costs for school operations keep going up. One way to save money is by reducing your energy costs. The Bright Schools Program offers services to help identify the most cost-effective energy saving opportunities for your facilities.

Who is Eligible?

• K-12 Public School Districts

• Charter Schools

• State Special Schools

• County Offices of Education*

• Community Colleges*

*County Offices of Education and Community Colleges seeking funding under the California Clean Energy Jobs Act (Proposition 39) may now apply for technical assistance under the Bright Schools Program.

Existing Facilities

With an energy audit of your facilities, we can identify energy-savings projects. Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) or Community Colleges planning renovations can benefit from our technical assistance services. For existing LEAs, the Bright Schools Program can:

• Provide energy audits and feasibility studies.

• Review existing proposals and designs.

• Develop equipment performance specifications.

• Review equipment bid specifications.

• Review commissioning plans.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to participate in the Bright Schools Program?
Participation in the Bright Schools Program does not affect the qualified award amount from the California Clean Energy Jobs /Proposition 39. In most cases, there is no cost to participate in the program.

We provide technical assistance services up to $20,000 of our consultant's costs. The cost of a study depends on the facility size, type and scope of the project. If the cost of the study exceeds $20,000, the school may opt to share in the cost or reduce the scope. We contract with experienced engineering and architectural consultants who provide the technical assistance.

When is my application due?
The Bright Schools Program is a continuously open program with no final filing date. Program funds are limited, however, so filing promptly will help increase your chance of receiving assistance. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

How will you evaluate my application?
Before receiving assistance, applicants must meet the following program selection criteria: commitment to implementing energy efficiency recommendations, high energy cost per square footage, and potential for energy savings. The application and Governing Board Resolution must indicate how your LEA plans to fund the energy efficiency project recommendations.

What if I need funding for my energy saving projects?
You can apply for a low interest loan from the Energy Commission. Loans are available at competitive rates for Local Assistance. For more information, go to www.energy.ca.gov/efficiency/financing/.

 

The Application Process